Rotorcraft Uncrewed Conversion Kit for Contested Logistics and Sustainment

Near Earth Autonomy proposes the development, integration, and demonstration of a Rotorcraft Uncrewed Conversion Kit (RUCK) to transform piloted medium- and heavy-lift helicopters, specifically the UH-60 Black Hawk, into optionally piloted autonomous aircraft. This initiative addresses the logistical challenges faced by the Army in multi-domain operations, particularly in contested environments, where autonomous logistics solutions are vital for sustained resupply. RUCK is designed to provide a cost-effective retrofit option for existing aircraft, enabling autonomous cargo transport and reducing risks to aircrew in high-threat environments. RUCK leverages high Technology Readiness Level subsystems, integrating Near Earth's mechanical components, sensors, computing, and software with the UH-60’s existing infrastructure. It incorporates decision-making software, obstacle avoidance sensors, autopilot, and mission management tools. This provides full autonomy from takeoff to landing, including in-flight retasking and handling mission contingencies. RUCK is an affordable alternative to only procuring new optionally piloted aircraft like the UH-60M. The immediate goal is an autonomous UH-60 capable of operating in contested logistics environments, enhancing operational readiness, reducing personnel risks, and enabling resupply missions during future conflicts. Since we use the Army’s Modular Open System Approach, the same technology can be applied to other logistics aircraft like the Lakota and the Chinook with minor modifications. The proposal first substantiates the technical merit and feasibility of RUCK, drawing on Near Earth's past successes with various cargo aircraft. It then outlines the technical approach, objectives, tasks, risk mitigation strategies, and deliverables. The transition and commercialization sections highlight how the team intends to extend RUCK’s applications to civilian helicopters and the emerging Advanced Air Mobility sector. Near Earth Autonomy’s expertise in autonomy comes from its experience with numerous DoD projects, including ONR’s Autonomous Aerial Cargo/Utility System, NAVAIR’s Autonomous K-MAX, and the Army’s heavy vertical takeoff and landing (HVTOL) system. Past achievements include integrating autonomy with the Kaman KARGO UAV, demonstrating successful autonomous logistics missions. RUCK builds on these accomplishments by extending autonomous capabilities to helicopters, significantly broadening their operational role in military and commercial settings. This initiative is strengthened by a partnership with industry leader Honeywell that will support certification and commercialization of the technology with a wide range of aircraft. This synergistic partnership combines each organization’s strengths to deliver a robust and scalable solution, accelerating the deployment of autonomous logistics systems for the Army and expanding their potential for broader applications in both defense and commercial markets.